There have been more challenging outsets to careers, but given the expectations both internal and external, that’s likely little comfort to Jarred Kelenic as the young outfielder enters his age-23 season. He is slated for the inside track on (though not guaranteed) the primary role in left field for the Seattle Mariners as a platoon with veteran A.J. Pollock and the M’s two LHP-inclined utility men. That he is afforded that billing is testament in part to the club’s belief in him and his exemplary numbers all throughout the minor leagues, as well as in spurts of his big league run, which have nonetheless not overcome a deeply unsavory offensive line.
40 in 40: Jarred Kelenic and learning the hard way
